6 Best Day Trips from Tokyo: Kamakura, Hakone, Nikko, Mt. Fuji and More
Published: 2026-10-07
Once you've got the hang of Tokyo, why not venture a little further? Here are popular getaways you can reach by train and enjoy in a single day.
The short answer
| Destination | Highlights | Main departure | One way, roughly | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kamakura | The Great Buddha, temples, shrines and the sea | Tokyo or Shinagawa Station (JR) | About 1 hr | History and temple lovers |
| Hakone | Hot springs, Lake Ashi, views of Mt. Fuji | Shinjuku Station (Odakyu Romancecar) | About 1.5 hrs | Onsen and nature |
| Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko) | Stunning Mt. Fuji views | Shinjuku (highway bus or the Fuji Excursion train) | About 2 hrs | Anyone who wants to see Mt. Fuji |
| Nikko | The World Heritage Nikko Toshogu shrine and nature | Asakusa Station (Tobu limited express) | About 2 hrs | Ornate architecture and autumn leaves |
| Yokohama | Harbor night views and Chinatown | Shibuya (Tokyu Toyoko Line) or Tokyo Station (JR) | 30–40 min | An easy, low-effort outing |
| Kawagoe | "Little Edo" old townscape | Ikebukuro Station (Tobu Tojo Line) | 30–40 min | Strolling old streets |
Travel times are rough one-way estimates from the main departure stations in central Tokyo. They vary with the train type and transfers.
The easiest trips from central Tokyo are Yokohama and Kawagoe. Nikko and the Fuji Five Lakes are further, so set off early.
The best day trips
KamakuraThe Great Buddha of Kotoku-in, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine and seaside views from the Enoden line. A perfect old capital for temple hopping.
HakoneA mountain resort famous for hot springs. The pirate ships on Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine's torii gate standing in the lake are favorites.
Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko)Mt. Fuji across the water, with cherry blossoms in spring and red leaves in autumn.
NikkoNikko Toshogu, a World Heritage shrine dazzling with gold carvings, surrounded by waterfalls, lakes and forest.
YokohamaMinato Mirai's night skyline, one of Japan's biggest Chinatowns, the Cup Noodles Museum and much more.
Kawagoe"Little Edo", with old storehouse-style buildings. Don't miss the Toki no Kane bell tower and Candy Alley.Money-saving passes
- Hakone: Odakyu's "Hakone Freepass" covers most transport around Hakone, including the mountain railway, ropeway and pirate ships.
- Nikko: Tobu Railway offers a pass for visitors.
- Yokohama, Kamakura and Kawagoe can all be reached with an IC card.
Hakone Freepass (digital)
One phone ticket for Hakone's mountain railway, ropeway, pirate ships and more.
NIKKO PASS (digital)
A visitor pass with the round trip from Asakusa to Nikko plus local trains and buses.
Hakone Kamakura Pass
For seeing both Hakone and Kamakura, with unlimited Enoden rides, valid for several days.
Fuji Excursion limited express
A direct train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko. Reserve your seat in advance.
Pass details and prices can change. Check each railway's official website before you go.
Good to know before you go
Kamakura has a manners ordinance asking visitors not to eat while walking in crowded, narrow places. On busy streets like Komachi-dori, eat in front of the shop.
In Hakone, access around Owakudani is sometimes restricted because of volcanic activity. Check the latest information before you go.
Mt. Fuji is clearest on winter mornings, when the air is crisp. It often hides in clouds, so check the forecast before choosing your destination.
- Every destination gets very crowded on weekends and holidays. Go on a weekday if you can.
- Check your return train or bus times early. Booking limited express trains and buses ahead gives you peace of mind.
For getting to your departure station, see our transport page.
Official websites
- Kamakura Tourist Association
- Hakone (Hakone Navi)
- Fujiyoshida tourism guide
- Nikko Toshogu
- Yokohama Official Visitors' Guide
- Kawagoe Tourism Association
Hours, prices and rules can change. Check the official websites for the latest before you go.
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